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Maven's Morning Coffee: two special elections, retirements at the Sheriff's Department, a look at the LAUSD Board of Education

Alice Walton

Southern California will hold two special elections Tuesday to fill vacancies in the state Assembly and Senate that were created when Sacramento lawmakers were elected to the L.A. City Council. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

Special elections to fill vacancies in the state Assembly and Senate will be held today, reports Capitol Alert. Assemblywoman Holly Mitchell is expected to win a Senate seat previously held by L.A. City Councilman Curren Price. Over in the San Fernando Valley, 11 candidates are running for an Assembly seat previously held by L.A. City Councilman Bob Blumenfield.

The Daily News looks at a growing backlash against gang injunctions. "Opponents claim the court orders give law enforcement too much latitude in fighting gangs. As a result, critics say, more young people are being stopped, frisked, harassed and labeled gang members by law enforcement," according to the newspaper.

The Sheriff's Department's top officials are going into early retirement to avoid punishments for instigating a "culture of violence," according to the Daily News. "At this point, there is nothing further for the department to do in order to hold these managers accountable," said independent monitor Richard Drooyan. A report will be presented to the Board of Supervisors later this morning.

A Los Angeles Times editorial calls out the LAUSD Board of Education for micromanaging the school district. "Members need to learn how to listen to the superintendent at the same time that they question some of his proposals, lest (John) Deasy also quit in frustration. They need to do their homework, organize their thinking, put forth well-reasoned and researched resolutions, treat one another with respect and cultivate a board culture of efficiency," per The Times.

The National Association of County Park and Recreation Officials named L.A. County Supervisor Mike Antonovich as the 2013 Outstanding Public Official for his work to preserve open space.

Sheriff Lee Baca will speak to the Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association on Wednesday at 7:15 p.m.

Previously in Represent!

Represent! is your eye on how well government serves citizens and the public interest in Southern California. KPCC's politics and government team posts frequently on transparency, civic engagement, reform efforts and accountability. We invite your comments and suggestions — follow us on Twitter at the links below.